The experiences of Blue Jays prospects while on the Arizona Fall League's Phoenix Desert Dogs.

Guest Blogger– J.P. Arencibia

Hi, my name is J.P. Arencibia, and I am a catcher in the Blue Jays organization. This year I played my first full season in High A, got moved during the All-Star Break to Double-A, and I finished up the season in Double-A. I learned a lot this season, especially how long the season is and so did my legs. My organization sent me here to work on some things in my game. Obviously all aspects you try to improve, but mostly to see more pitches. It’s been an honor to play with such talent in the league, but what impresses me the most is the quality of guys in this league, on a personal level.

This is my second time to the AFL. The first time I came as a fan when I was a junior in college. Chase Headley and Luke Hochevar were my college teammates and I came here to watch them play.

We have the best fan in the AFL, and her name is Susan. She makes my day every time I come out of the dugout. She has the most positive attitude I have ever been around. I also get to experience the Arizona Diamondbacks flag lady, who is also one of my favorites.

I’m kinda upset I haven’t been able to play golf yet because I heard the golf courses are great out here. I did get to attend a Cardinals football game which I enjoyed, and hopefully I will get to see a Suns game and see Shaq–which you guys stole from Miami! I am staying with Travis Snider, who also plays in the Blue Jays organization. On Sundays we have BBQs at the house and play Rock Band.

Thanks for reading my blog, and don’t be scared to say ‘hi’ to me at the ballpark!

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5 Comments

J.P.

Great to see that you’re enjoying the AFL. Living in the North, I have much less of a sense of the offseason activity in baseball. As a catcher you get a really good sense of the developing pitchers in the organization. Is there anyone we, as Toronto fans, should be getting especially excited about?

Give our regards to Snider! Blue Jays fans are very excited to see what he can do in the years to come!

Hey J.P., I have been a huge fan of yours since you were a freshman at UT. Living here in Knoxville, it was great to be able to watch you play several times. I’ve had a blast following your progress from Auburn to New Hampshire. The AFL has also been awesome because you get to play with and against the best prospects in the game. Your blog was awesome and I hope you keep doing it! Good luck for the rest of the season and in 2009!

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